A man has appeared in court accused of committing a murder almost 17 years ago.

James McGowan is accused of killing 46-year-old Owen Brannigan by repeatedly stabbing him at a house in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, on November 1999.

The 58-year-old appeared on the murder charge at the High Court in Glasgow on Thursday.

McGowan, who was represented by solicitor advocate Simon Whyte, pleaded not guilty.

He is also alleged to have assaulted Thomas Duggan to his severe injury at the Kirkshaws Social Club, Dunure Street, Coatbridge on November 28, 1999.

Judge Lady Rae set trial for January 31 next year at the High Court in Edinburgh.

McGowan is accused of murdering Owen Brannigan, 46, by repeatedly stabbing him with a knife in the house at 10 Bankhead Avenue, Kirkwood, Coatbridge, on November 28 or 19, 1999.

He is also alleged to have assaulted Thomas Duggan to his severe injury at the Kirkshaws Social Club, Dunure Street, Coatbridge on November 28, 1999.